Should I Buy a Front Load or a Top Load Washing Machine?
Wed Feb 22 2023
- Appliances
If you are wanting to find the perfect fit for you, both front-loader and top-loader machines come with a list of distinct pros and cons for you to consider. Keep reading to identify which option is better suited for you and your home!
Front-Load Washing Machines
Front-load washers are loaded through the front of the appliance, as the name suggests, and typically use less water per wash cycle than other styles. They are known for being extremely gentle on clothing and often offer a faster spinning speed than most top-loader models, allowing them to dry clothing faster. Here are the pros and cons of a front-load washing machine:
Pros:
- Energy Efficient: Known for their energy efficiency which can save you money on your electricity bill in the long run
- Water Usage: They are known for using less water than top-load models which makes them an eco-friendlier option
- Gentler On Clothing: Front-load machines are gentler on clothes since they do not use an agitator
Cons:
- Maintenance: More maintenance can be needed with this model
- Higher Cost: While this is not always true and there are a lot of affordable models available, overall they tend to be priced higher than top loader washing machines.
- Bending and Squatting: In order to load the laundry you will need to bend down or squat which may be uncomfortable for some.
- Smaller Capacity: It’s common for top-load washers to have a smaller capacity than front-load models.
Top-Load Washing Machines
Top-loading washers can be divided into two separate types: agitator and high efficiency. We compare the two in-depth in our blog post, Best Top-Loading Washers 2021. Top-loading washers tend to deliver a more powerful clean but are generally less energy efficient. Here are the pros and cons of a top-load washing machine:
Pros:
- Lower Cost: They are often more affordable than front-load models
- Faster Wash Cycles: While this varies on the model, top-loaders tend to have a shorter wash cycle than front-loaders
- No Bending: They do not require you to bend down in order to load and unload your laundry
- Powerful: Top-load washers are known for delivering a more powerful clean than front-load washers, perfect for fighting tough stains
- Larger Capacity: They typically have a larger capacity than front-load models, which means you can wash more in fewer loads
Cons:
- Not Stackable: Can not be stacked to save room like most font-load washers can
- Higher Water & Energy Consumption: Top-load washers tend to use more water and energy than front-load models.
- Harsh Agitator: Top-load washing machines that use an agitator can cause clothes to tangle or snag, potentially damaging them.
Front-Load Vs Top-Load: Which Is Better?
Now that we’ve covered the main pros and cons of each style, you may be wondering which option is better. While they are both amazing washers to have in your home, one will likely be a better fit for you than the other due to your unique personal preferences and needs.
Take a look at what you prioritize most in a washer to begin filtering out options. For instance, if you have children who play sports and are always getting muddy, a top-load washer might be a good option to tackle those tough stains. If you are looking for a gentler washer and trying to save space in your home, then a front-load washer could be a great fit for you as most models are stackable, enabling them to fit perfectly into small spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much water does a front-load washing machine use?
Front-load washers use around 5 gallons of water less per cycle than top-load washers which can use up to 45 gallons of water per cycle.
How to clean a top-loading washing machine?
A quick and effective way to clean a top-loading washing machine is by adding in white vinegar and then running a hot cycle with high temperatures.
Are top-load washers bigger than front loaders?
Top-load washers tend to have a slightly larger capacity, typically around 5.0 Cu. Ft
Find Your Perfect Washer
Whether you are looking for the best washer and dryer set, a front-load washer, a top-load washer, or a stackable washer to upgrade your home, Silica has exactly what you need. Stop by any of our store locations in Fond du Lac, Beaver Dam, or Watertown to begin browsing our large selection of products from top brands.
Our appliance experts will be happy to help you find the perfect appliance for your home, no matter your personal preferences or needs. We care about helping you build your dream home, which is why we constantly strive to provide the best customer service in Wisconsin. Visit Silica, the best laundry appliance store near you, for all of your appliance needs.
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